Matū PurePod glass hotel opens in New Zealand
Matū PurePod is a glass-walled hotel suite located on New Zealand's North Island that offers guests uninterrupted views of the wilderness and night sky. Olivia Palamountain reports
The Matū PurePod, the latest addition to New Zealand's network of glass accommodation suites, features transparent walls, roof and floor, creating the illusion of floating in the landscape.
Located on a hilltop near the Waitomo Caves, the eco-cabin has achieved a five-star rating for its accommodation quality and Enviro Gold certification from Qualmark for its environmental standards.
Guests reach the isolated location via a 25-minute walk from the parking area, arriving at a fully-glazed structure that offers panoramic views of the surrounding tussock-covered hillside. The pod runs entirely on solar power and filtered rainwater, though its off-grid status hasn't compromised luxury amenities, which include premium linens, heating and a powerful hot shower."There is no better way to combine the luxury and comfort of a premium hotel room with the ultimate connection to nature," says Paul Carberry, founder of New Zealand In Depth, the travel company offering stays at the pod.The location promises dramatic viewings of both sunrise and sunset, accompanied by native birdsong. At night, guests can stargaze through the glass ceiling, watching the Milky Way from their bed, while during storms, the pod offers a protected vantage point for watching weather systems move across the landscape.The pod costs £225 per person per night, including dinner and breakfast hampers, based on two people sharing.
New Zealand In Depth recommends incorporating it into a broader New Zealand itinerary, with 12-day personalised trips available from £2,300 per person, excluding flights but including accommodation, car hire and inter-island ferry travel.